On Wednesday, March 30th, we hosted #StartupChats to talk about what it really means to build an online presence, market your business online and tell your story – and why it matters.
An incredible panel of experts joined us to share their knowledge and provide valuable advice throughout the hour;
Jasmine Williams, Founder
Samantha Llyod, Marketing Advisor
Kelly Rusk, Fractional CMO
Kate Taylor, Marketer and Brand Builder
Why bother being online and building an online presence?
A1 Every business is different in finding success! Canada is expected to continue to be a large e-commerce market. Building your online presence is important and can provide success and growth for your company, no matter the stage of your business. #StartupChats
— Mastercard Canada (@MastercardCA) March 30, 2022
Q1: We live in a digital age so having an online presence is key to getting discovered. Anytime you hear about a new brand, what is one of your first actions? Google? If they don’t show up, you’re already moving on to the next best thing 👉 #StartupChats
— Kate Taylor (@ktetylr_) March 30, 2022
Q1: I believe you need an online presence. 46% of Google searched have local intent. I’d recommend creating a website/social but, at minimum I’d always recommend a brick-and-mortar set themselves up on Google Business Profile: https://t.co/J6OkLfLrj5
— Sam Lloyd (@profeshsam) March 30, 2022
A1 Why be online? Because the world is smaller than it’s ever been. When you have an online presence, you’re not limited by your physical location. You can work with anyone, anywhere. #StartupChats https://t.co/qUlDX74GcU
— Jasmine | Copy + Content Strategy (@TheJasWilliams) March 30, 2022
You have a story, but how do you positon it for the online world?
A5: Online storytelling is fragmented yet pieces need to stand alone. Start with a very clear goal or main point and ensure it’s always sewn through. #StartupChats
— Kelly Rusk (@krusk) March 30, 2022
A7: The best way for you to continue growing your business is to engage with your customers regularly. Be open to feedback to discover what changes you can make and what’s working best. The more data points you have, the easier it is to know which feedback to apply! #StartupChats
— Sam Lloyd (@profeshsam) March 30, 2022
A7: 100% agreed with @krusk. Surveys and gathering feedback is imperative to success. If you demonstrate that you actively listen to the needs of your consumer and make improvements, this will drive loyalty. #StartupChats
— Kate Taylor (@ktetylr_) March 30, 2022
And when folks listen to your story, how do you approach and connect with them?
A7. There is no default answer to the first question – it’s contextual. If they approach you, talk with them; ask questions to understand their reason for approaching you #StartupChats
— LYNDON [THINK DIFFERENTLY] JOHNSON (@THINK_Lyndon) March 30, 2022
A7: With curiosity. What are their needs? How can you help them? Listening and helping is underrated yet powerful in marketing #StartupCanada
— Kelly Rusk (@krusk) March 30, 2022
A7: The best way for you to continue growing your business is to engage with your customers regularly. Be open to feedback to discover what changes you can make and what’s working best. The more data points you have, the easier it is to know which feedback to apply! #StartupChats
— Sam Lloyd (@profeshsam) March 30, 2022
A7: 100% agreed with @krusk. Surveys and gathering feedback is imperative to success. If you demonstrate that you actively listen to the needs of your consumer and make improvements, this will drive loyalty. #StartupChats
— Kate Taylor (@ktetylr_) March 30, 2022
Need more answers? We captured the entire conversation for you to continue learning.